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Aruvikkara (Ancient Temple)
16 kms north of Thiruvananthapuram,
is Aruikkara, which is gifted with lavish scenic
beauty and it also has an ancient temple dedicated
to goddess Durga, on the banks of the River Aruvikkara.
The City of Thiruvananthapuram gets its water supply
from Aruvikkara reservoir.
The Padmanabha Swamy Temple
It is the imposing seven-storied
tower built by Raja Marthanda Varma in 1733 A.D,
which makes it by far, the most impressive landmark
around the city. The presiding deity of the temple
is Lord Vishnu reclining on the Serpent Anantha.
Only Hindus are allowed entry inside the temple and
dress regulations are strictly followed. A large
market lines the street in front, and the pool beside
it is for ritual bathing. There are innumerable pillars,
intricate carving and mural paintings, inside the
temple. It is therefore an excellent example of the
Dravidian style of architecture.
Sarkara (Temple)
35 kms north of Thiruvananthapuram
and 6 kms west of Attingal, there is a famous temple
in Sarkara, which is dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathi.
A grand festival, Sarkara Bharani, is conducted in
this temple during March - April.
Thiruvallam (Temple)
About 6 kms South of the city,
on the Thiruvananthapuram-Kovalam road is Thiruvallam.
There is an ancient temple here on the banks of the
River Karamana, which is dedicated to the Thrimurthis
of the Hindu Pantheon. A shrine of Parasurama built
entirely of granite stone is found in this temple.
Varkala (Pilgrim Centre)
41 kms North of Thiruvananthapuram
by rail and 51 kms by road, Varkala is a famous pilgrim
center. The Samadhi of Sree Narayana Guru, The great
social reformer and philosopher, attracts devotees
in thousands. The cliffs and mineral water springs
at the Papanasam Beach are worth a visit. The inland
waterways system connecting Kollam in the North,
with Thiruvananthapuram in the South, passes through
two tunnels in the hills. The Janardhana Swamy Temple
here attracts many devotees.
Ariankave (Pilgrim Center)
70 kms from Kollam, on the route to Shenkotah, is Arainkavu where there
is a famous shrine devoted to Lord Shasta. The main festival of this
temple is in December.
Mayyanad
The place is primarily noted for its shrines and temples, the most important
of the nine temples being the Subramanya Temple at Umayanallor.
Oachira Temple (34 km)
Located to the north of Kollam town, Oachira Temple is the unique pilgrim
centre, with no idol or deity. The famous Parabrahma Temple is dedicated
to the Universal Consciousness.
Rameshwara Temple
There are inscriptions in Tamil depicting the epic Mahabaratha. These
inscription are from 12th to the 16th centuries. The Vyala monster
sculptures in this temple gives one the impression that the creatures
are animated and actually climbing up the stairs with their outstretched
paws.
Aranmula
The Parthasarathi Temple, dedicated
to Sree Krishna, on the banks of the holy River Pamba,
attractions large crowds of devotees. The famous
Aranmula snake boat race is held on the last day of the weeklong Onam
festival. The 'Vijinana Kalavedi" at Aranmula imparts training
in the traditional arts like 'Kathakali', classical dances, classical
music as well as 'Kalaripayattu'. Foreign tourists stay here for long
periods to get a first hand knowledge of the culture of Kerala. The
Parthasarathi Temple here also has fine murals from the 18th century.
Aranmula is also very famous for its hand made mirrors of polished
metal called ' Aranmula Kannadi', which is a unique craft and not found
anywhere else in the world.
Cherukolpuzha (Convention Place)
An important religious convention
of the Hindus is held at Cherukole on the banks of
River Pamba, usually in Feb every year.
Kadamanitta (Famous Temple)
The Akadamanitta Devi Temple is famous for the ten long 'Padayani' performances
held in connection with the annual festival in April - May.
Kaviyoor (Temple Area)
5kms east of Thiruvalla, situated on the banks of the River Manimala,
Kaviyoor is famous for its temples. The Kaviyoor Temple and the rock
cut temple nearby are of great archaeological importance. The Hanuman
Temple stands on a small hillock and is built in the gable style architecture.
The stone figures here are considered to be the earliest specimen of
stone sculpture in Kerala.
Kodumao Chilanthiyambalam (Miraculous Water)
The water of the 'Chilanthikinar' well in the premises of this temple
is believed to cure skin diseases.
Kozhencherry (Maramon Convention)
Situated on the banks of the River Pamba, Kozhencherry is well known
for the religious Maramon Convention held annually in Feb-March, which
is the biggest gathering of Christians in Asia. People of all communities
attend it, as religious thinkers and Christian scholars from across
the world address the convention.
Malayapuzha
8 km from Pathanamthitta, the goddess at the Bhagavathy temple here,
is believed to grant boons to devotees and help them realise their
dreams. The Temples has beautiful wall paintings and artistic stone
carvings.
Manjanikara Church
Mar Ignatius Elias III, the hold patriot of Anthiod, while on a visit
to India, died at this place in 1932. His mortal remains are preserved
at this church, as later this place developed into a pilgrim centre.
The annual festival, Ormaperunnal is held in February.
Nilackal (Place of Worship)
The old Shiva Temple on the Pamba Pathanamthitta road is an important
place of worship. The estate of the Farming Corporation and Ecumenical
Centre of the Christians are located here.
Niranam (Oldest Church)
7 kms from Thiruvalla at Niranam is the oldest Christian Church in India,
believed to be built by St. Thomas in 52 AD
Pandalam (Pilgrim Town)
14 kms from Chengannur railway station, Pandalam, as a holy town is perhaps
second to Sabrimala. Sree Ayyappa, the presiding deity of Sabarimala
had his human sojourn here, as the son of Raja of Pandalam. The Valiyakoikal
Temple near the palace, on the banks of River Achenkovil has been modeled
on the Sabarimala Shrine. Pilgrims usually stop here to worship, before
proceeding to Sabarimala. Three days prior to the Makaravilaku festival,
the sacred ornaments of Sree Ayyappa are taken in a procession from
Pandalam to Sabarimala.
Parumala (festival)
10 kms from Thiruvalla, the Ormaperunal (commemoration day) of Mar Gregorious
Metropolitan, the declared saint of Malankara Orthodox Church, is celebrated
on the first and second of November.
Sabarimala (Pilgrim Centre)
One of the most famous pilgrim centres in India, Sabarimala is situated
on the mountain ranges of the Western Ghats, at an altitude of 914
m above sea level and is accessible only by foot, from Pamba (4kms).
The hold shrine dedicated to Lord Ayyappa attracts thousands of pilgrims
from all over India, from different castes, creed, especially from
other parts of South India. Mandalapooja and Makaravilakku are the
two main events of the pilgrim season, which is from Nov to mid Jan.
The Temple remains closed during the rest of the year, except for the
first five days of every Malayalam month and during 'Vishu' in April.
Sabarimala is surrounded by hazardous hills like Karimala and Neelimala.
Men of all ages are allowed inside the temple but women only below
10 years and above 50 years of age are permitted inside.
Thiruvalla (Religious Place)
This is the headquarters of the Malankara Marthoma Syrian Church. The
Paliakara Church here has some exquisite mural paintings. The SreeVallabha
Temple in Thiruvalla is perhaps the only one in Kerala, where Kathakali
is performed as a ritual offering everyday.
Ambalapuzha - Sree Krishna Temple
This is 14 kms. Away from Alappuzha and has been built in the typical
Kerala architectural style. This temple is famous all over India, for
Palapayasam, sweet milk porridge, offered daily in the temple. The main
festival of this temple is held in March/ April.
Arthunkal- St. Sebastian's church
Built by Portuguese missionaries, this church is an important Christian
pilgrim centre, which is near Sherthallai, 22kms North of Alappuza.
The feast of St. Sebastian is celebrated here with great honour in
January.
Champakulam - St. Mary`s Church
This is one of the oldest churches in Kerala, and according to people
belief, it is one of the seven churches established by St. Thomas.
The feast is celebrated on the 3rd Sunday of October.
Chavara Bhavan - Holy Shrine
6kms. From Alappuzha, accessible only by boast that is the ancestral
home of blessed Kuriakose alias Chavara, which is a spiritual resort
and holy shrine for thousands of Devotees, who gather for prayer and
beacon of light is preserved here in it's original and primitive forum.
Chettikulangara Bhagavathy temples
There is a festival celebrated here during February or March, called
Kettukazha, which is very famous for its processions of tall-decorated
structures in chariots where images of horses and bullocks are displayed.
Edathuva Church
This church was built in honour of St. George in 1810, is believed that
prayers offered in this church help to heal all mental disorders and
other ailments. It is 24kms. From Alappuzha, and pilgrims from all
parts of south India, irrespective of caste and creed, visit this church
and seek blessings from the saint during the 3 days feast held on 5th,
6th and 7th of may.
Karumandi- Buddhist Centre
A village situated in the east of Ambalapuzha, is famous for a black
granite figure of Buddha, called Karumandi Kuttan, which is centuries
old, and have many interesting legends connected to it.
Manmarasala- Sree Nagaraja Temple
This beautiful temple situated 32 kms. Away from Alappuzha near Harippad
is dedicated to the king of serpents, Nagaraja. It is an international
pilgrim centre and is believed that childless couples, who pray with
devotion at this temple, are blessed with children. Also a special
turmeric paste available at the Serpent shrine has the power to cure
leprosy.
Maramon
Kozhenchery is the venue of the great Christian religious convention
called Maramon Convention. It is held on the vast sands of the River
Pamba is said to be the biggest religious gathering of Christians in
Asia.
Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple
It situated in the heart of Alleppey town, dedicated to Goddess Rajarajeswari.
The nine days Navarathri festival is celebrated with great devotion
and importance. The last two days are most auspicious. Colourful processions
participated by nine elephants are held in the evening. Also many cultural
programmes are held in honour of this festival for thousands of devotees
who come there.
Bharananganam
This is one of the important pilgrim centres of the Christians in Kerala.
The mortal remains of Sister Alphonsa (1916-46), who was pronounced
as blessed is kept in St. Mary's Church here. This 1000 yrs old church
features an attractive grotto of Virgin Mary.
Changanachery Thrikodithanam Temple
It is believed that this is one of the five temples where the original
Vishnu image worshipped by the Pandavas is kept. 'The Deepam" festival
is celebrated here with great joy in the month of November or December.
Erumelli
This is an important pilgrim centre for Hindus and Muslims. Sree Dharmasastha
Temple here is an ancient temple dedicated to lord Ayyappa and there
is also an ancient mosque dedicated to 'Vavar' who is considered to
be the friend of lord Ayyappa. 'Petta Thullal' of Kanni Ayyappa is
an important festival held in December or January.
Ettumanoor
12 kms north of Kottayam, is the ancient Shiva Temple, which attracts
many devotees. There are exquisite mural paintings and sculptures inside
the temple. The Ramayana scenes from Santhana Gopala Krishna Leela
and Bhagavatham are beautifully carved round the shrine. The state
Archaeological dept. has opened a mural art centre near the temple.
The annual festival of the temple is held in February or March and
it lasts for 10 days.
Mahadevar Temple
This is a famous temple in Ettumanoor, which is 12 kms north of Kottayam
town. It is well known for its murals, especially the painting of Nataraja
in the Gopuram and Ezharaponnana (71/2 elephants finished in gold).
The temple festival, Ezharaponnana utsavam is in February or March.
Mannanam
An important Syrian Christian Centre, the town of Mannanam, 8kms from
Kottayam, sites the St. Joseph Monastery, associated with the name
of Fr. Kuriakose Elias of Chavara (1805-71), one of the saintly figures
of the Syrian Catholic Church of Kerala. Among renowned institutions
here is the St. Joseph Press, which was established in 844. This is
one of the oldest printing presses in Kerala. It printed the Nasrani
Deepika, one of Kerala's oldest newspapers.
Pundareekapuram Temple
Pundareekapuram is a small temple atop a small hill called Midayikunnam
near Thalayolapparambu, in Kottayam District. The temple is dedicated
to the Lord Vishnu mounted on his vehicle Garuda. The temple at Pundareekapuram
is famous for its Mural Collection.
Shiva Temple
Situated in Vaikom, 40 kms from Kottayam, this temple is dedicated to
Lord Shiva. This temple is very famous for its typical Kerala style
of temple architecture and is believed to have been constructed by
Parasurama, the mythological creator of Kerala. The 12 days 'Ashtami'
festival is celebrated here in November or December and is renowned
for its elephant procession, religious discourses, traditional dances
and important musical performance ' Panchavadyam'. Vaikom has figured
prominently in the history of Kerala as the venue of the famous Sathyagraha,
staged in 1925 with the blessings of Mahatma Gandhi for the admission
of the Harijans in the Temple.
Thirunakkara Mahadev Temple
This is a beautiful old temple situated in Kottayam town. The Koothambalam
here is one of the best in the state and the temple has also a wealth
of paintings on its walls. The main festival of the temple is 'Phalguna
Utsavam' which is celebrated during March.
St. Mary's Church, Kuravilangad
Built in 355 ad on the high ranges of Kuravilangad town, this church
has an old bell, which bears an un-deciphered inscription.
Good Shepherded Church, Kottayam
Valiyapalli Church and Cheryapalli
2 kms from Kottayam town, situated in Thazhathangadi these are two churches
dedicated to St. Mary which were built in 1515 AD and 1579 AD respectively.
The Valiapalli is well known for its Persian Cross and Pahalavi inscriptions
on it. The Cheriyapalli house some of the most exquisite murals and
paintings, depicting biblical and other themes.
Idukki
Kaveri Mount
This is a famous pilgrim centre on the way to Kattappana, and it resembles
mount Cavery where Jesus Christ was crucified.
Mangala Devi Temple
The ancient temple, 15Kms from Thekkady, is hidden in the dense woods
at the top of a peak 1337 m above sea level. The temple built in the
traditional Kerala Style of architecture visitors are allowed here
only on Chitra Pournami festival day. The peak commands a panoramic
view of the eastern slopes of the Ghats and small hill villages of
Tamil Nadu.
Jewish synagogue
This is the oldest synagogue, which was built in 1568. It is well known
for the 18th century hand printed, willow patterned flow tiles from
china, the great scrolls of the old testament, a clock tower, Hebrew
inscriptions on stone slabs, ancient scripts on copper plates etc.
there are also gold and silver crowns gifted to the synagogue by various
patrons.
Mattanchery Jewish Synagogue
Kalady - Adi Sankaracharya
10kms away from Alwaye is a famous pilgrim center Kalady, situated on
the banks of River Periyar, which is the birthplace of Adi Sankaracharya,
the great Indian philosopher of the 8th century. There is a shrine
dedicated to him in the name of Dakshimurthy and a temple of goddess
Sharada. Also and ancient Shri Krishna Temple is situated close by,
which was the family temple of Adi Sankaracharya, known as the International
temple dedicated to Shri Ramakrishna. There is also a place situated
there called the crocodile ghat, where this great philosopher took
his vows of renunciation.
Malayattoor - St. Thomas
47 kms from Kochi is a famous Catholic Church, built on the 609 feet
high Malayattur hill dedicated to St. Thomas, as it is believed that
he had once prayed here. Thousands of devotees visit this church to
pray during the annual festival "Malayaattur Perunnal", which
is held during March- April.
Munnikkal Guhalayam
This place is located on the top of a hill at Chengamanad, 30kms north
of Kochi. It is believed that sage Jangaman live here 2000 years ago.
A famous temple of Lord Murugan is located on the spot, where the sage
is said to have meditated, which was later consecrated by Chattambi
Swamikal in 1898. This place got the name " Munikkal Guhalayam'
which means 'Sages Rock Cave"
Pazhur
25 kms towards the south east of Kochi, near Piravom is the place Pazur.
It is believed that Shiva Temple here is nearly 1800 years old. The
River Muvattupuzha flowing westward from the east, changes direction
on reaching the temple, otherwise the temple would have been washed
away. This place is important for astrologers who believe that it is
blessed with divine powers.
Santhanagopala Krishnaswamy Temple
This is one of the oldest temples in India. The original foundation of
this temple was laid in 947 BC, according to the inscription found
in the temple.
St. Francis Church, Fort Cochin
Built by Portuguese, St. Francis Church in memory of Franciscan Friars
in 1503. This is the first European church in India. It was restored
in 1779 by the protestant Dutch, converted to an Anglican church by
the British in 1795, and is presently used by the protestants in south
India. Vaso-Da-Gama was buried here. But fourteen years later, his
mortal remains were taken to Lisbon, in Portugal. His tombstone still
remains here.
Vamanamoorth Temple
In Thrikakkara near Ernakulam is this beautiful temple where the inscriptions
from the 10th to 13th century are found.
Arattupuzha (Temple Festival)
This village is well known for the annual Pooram festival at the temple
in April-May. The uniqueness of this festival lies in the ceremonial
processions that bring the images of the deities of 41 neighboring
temples to this village.
Divine Retreat Centre
It is a very big Christian Retreat Centre located at Muringoor and Potta,
near Chalakudy, on the Kochi - Thrissur route. People from all over
the country and even from other countries come here to attend the retreat,
which is held every week, starting from Sunday to Saturday. Large number
of people from different religions, irrespective of Caste and creed
come over here.
Guruvayoor (Pilgrim Centre)
Thrissur is a good base for a pilgrim trip to Guruvayoor, 32 kms away.
Among Hindus it is most important pilgrimage centres and is also known
as the Dwarka of the south. The Sree Krishna Swamy Temple, which attracts
thousands of pilgrims is said to date prior to the 16th century. Tradition
has it that the temple was created by Guru the preceptor of the Devas,
and Vayu- the lord of winds. The temple is dedicated to Krishna, known
here as Guruvayoorappan (the Lord of Guruvayoor) and the idol is said
to have been worshipped by Lord Bharma himself at Dwaraka. It is at
this Temple that Melpathur Narayana Bhattathiri composed this well-known
Sanskrit devotional poem, 'Narayaneeyam'
The temple is renowned for its healing power. Several offerings are made
to the deity here from the simple 'Archana' (offering of flowers) or
'Thulabharam', where a devotee is weighed against offering of bananas,
sugar, jaggery and coconuts. Guruvayoor is also the site for several
weddings and 'Annaprasanam' the first feeding ceremony of a child.
Irinjalakuda (Pilgrim Centre)
21 kms from Thrissur, at Irinjalakuda is a temple of Bharatha, probably
the only temple in India dedicated to the brother of Lord Rama in Ramayana.
Triprayar (Pilgrim Centre)
25 kms away from Thrissur, is a Rama Temple at Triprayar, which features
architecture similar to the Vadakkumnathan Temple.
Vadakuunnathan Temple
One of the oldest temples in the state, the Vadakunnathan Temple is a
classical example of Kerala style of architecture and harmony decorative
murals and pieces of art. The temple also contains the sacred shrines
of Paramasiva, Paravathy, Shankaranarayana, Ganapath, Sri Rama, and
Sri Krishna. Legend goes that Parasurama founded the temple. This is
the venue of the world famous Pooram festival, celebrated annually
in April-May. The fire works at Pooram are a spectacular sight.
Kalpathi temple
The most important of all the temples, Kalpathi Temple is dedicated to
Lord Shiva. The car festival or the Rathotsavam is held here in November
Thrithala
75 kms from Palakkad along the banks of River Bharathapuzha, Thrithala
is famed for its Shiva temple. Kattilmadom temple on the Pattambi-Guruvayoor
road has archaeological importance, the small granite structure, and
a testimony of Buddhist influence, built probably during the 9th or
10th century.
Jain Temple of Jainmedu
Situated in Vadakkanthara village on the western border of Palakkad town.
This historic 32 feet long and 20 feet wide granite temple devoid of
many decoration, displays images of the Jain Thirthankaras and yekshinis.
The region around the temple known as Jainmedu is one of the few places
in Kerala where the vestiges of Jainism have survived. It is in a Jain
house here, where the famous poet Kumaranasan wrote his monumental
famous poem 'Veenapoovu' which means the 'Fallen Flower'
Ongallur Taliyil Shiva Temple
Situated near Pattambi, this temple has some of the most intricate laterite
sculptures in Kerala.
Punarjini Guha (Natural Tunnel)
Situated 2 kms from the Thiruvalla Temple, Punarjiji Guha is a natural
tunnel in the rocky cliff. Sri Raman is the temple's chief deity of
the idol is believed to be 'Swayambhoo' (Born on its own), and its
abode is on the Western side. One can reach there either by foot, along
the rugged hills or to the foot of the hills through the motor able
road down and then climb up. The narrow tunnel is inside the road,
about 15meters long. It is believed that performing 'noozhal' which
means crawling through the tunnel from one end to the other will wash
away one's sins and thus attain rebirth. Only men are allowed to do
the noozhal (crawling) normally, and women can do it only once a year
on Ekadeshi Day.
Thenari (Natural Spring)
It is believed that the waters of this natural spring, located in front
of the old Sree Ram Temple here, is as sacred as the water of the Ganges.
Legend goes that when Lord Rama and Sita were on exile. One day Sita
felt thirsty and there was no water nearby. Lord Rama used his bow
and arrow made a spring to quench Sita's thirst.
Thiruvegappura Sankaranarayan Temple
This Temple in Palakkad district dates back to the 14th century, while
its Koothambalam (Temple Theater) was probably added in the 15th or
16th century.
Angadippuram (Religious Center)
This place is an important religious center for both, Hindus and Muslims.
It has the Tirumandhankunnu Temple, dedicated to goddess Durga as well
as the Puthanangadi Mosque, Which has Arabic inscriptions engraved
on its Planks.
Kadampuzha (Bhagavathy Temple)
3 kms. North of Vettichira on the highway, connecting Kozhikode and Thrissur,
Kadampuzha is famous for its Bhagavathy Temple, said to have been set
up by Sree Sankaracharya, the philosopher.
Kondotti
On the way to Malappuram, 18 km west of Manjeri is Kondotti, a prominent
pilgrimage location for Muslims. The Valia Nercha festival at the 500-year-old
Pazhayangadi Mosque is celebrated for three days in February-March, drawing
large number of devotees.
Malappuram Mosque
Malappuram Nercha is celebrated in summer, in memory of the martyrs who
fought the atrocities of the militia. The British established the Haig
Barracks on top of the hill, at the banks of the River Kundalundi,
to station their forces. The martyrs who fought against Para Nambi,
the Chieftain of the Lamorins, who ruled his headquarters at Kottappady,
were laid to rest near the mosque
Thai Temple
This famous temple is located about 3kms.west of Angadipuram, on the
way to Malappuram from Perithalmanna.
The Jama-at Mosque
This is an important place for Kerala Muslims. The annual Nercha festival
of the mosque is celebrated for four days in April. Adjoining the Mosques
is the mausoleum of the Malappuram Shaheeds whose brave exploits have
been immortalized in the Mappila Ballads (Muslim ballads).
Thirumandhankunnu Temple
This is an important pilgrim centre in Mallapuram dedicated to goddess
Durga. Every year Pooram festival celebrated in the months of March
and April attracting large numbers of devotees.
Thirunavya
8 kms. South of Tirur, situated on the banks of the Bharathapuzha, Thirunavya
is a place of great historical and religious significance. In the olden
days, Mamangam festival conducted here was a grand assembly of the
rulers of Kerala, which was held once in 12 years. Believed to have
been founded by Cheraman Perumal, this extravagant festival was conducted
for the last time in 1755.Today Thiruvanya is the venue for the annual
Sarvodya Mela, which gathers large crowds of people, and the Thiruvanya
Navamukunda Temple, which is said to have been founded by nine saints
is a famous pilgrim centre
Trikandiyur Shiva Temple
The idol at this ancient temple is said to have been installed by Parasurama,
the legendary creator of Kerala. The temple is located near the town
of Tirur and attracts devotees from far and wide.
Kuttichira
The stone inscription found in Maccunti Mosque at Kuttichira, reveals
an interesting aspect in the history of the Zamorins of Kozhikode and
their patronage of Islam in Kerala. The architecture of this ancient
mosque bears great resemblance to the typical temple complex with pillars,
ventilators and huge tank.
Lokanarkavu Temple
This temple, which is associated with the heroes and heroines of the
Vadakkanpattu, combines an arresting simplicity and a legendary aura.
The candid murals and carvings are a delight for art lovers.
Tali Temple
Built by Swamy Thirumudpad, a Zamorin, in the 14th century, within the
palace complex, this temple was the venue of Revathy Pattathanam, the
annual cultural festival and intellectual event at the Zamorins court.
Glass Temple
The Glass Temple is situated on a slope of the Vellarimala hill in Koottamunda,
20 km from Kalpetta. This temple is dedicated to Paraswanatha swami
of the Jain faith. The mirrors inside the temple walls reflect in thousands
of beautiful pattern the images of the icons in the temple's sanctum
sanctorum.
Jain Temples at Panamaram
These ruined Jain Temples are situated within 5 kms northeast of Panamaram.
Pallikunnu Church
Pallikunnu Church is 12 kms north of Kalpetta. The annual festival is
celebrated in the month of January.
Puliyar Mala Jain Temple
It is 5 kms north of Kalpetta. This temple is devoted for Anantha Natha
Swami, one of the saints of Jain faith.
Sulthan Bathery Jain Temple
It is generally known as Tippu's Fort and situated at Sulthan Bathery
town. Tippu used this temple as the Battery of his army.
Thirunelly
Thirunelly "Kasi of the south" is just 32 kms from Mananthavady.
The backdrop of Brahma-giri hills lends an idyllic charm to Thirunelly.
One would marvel at the magnitude of the labour involved in the construction
of the shrine shielded with 30 granite columns and the ground paved with
huge square shaped granites. Near the temple is the "Papanasini",
whose waters, according to religious belief can wash one's sins.
Varambetta Mosque
15 kms south east of Kalpetta, this 300-year-old mosque is the oldest
in Wayanad.
Valliyoorkkavu Temple
Valliyoorkkavu Temple is situated 3 kms east of Mananthavadi, this temple,
dedicated to Goddess Durga. This shrine is very popular among the tribal
communities of the district. The ten-day annual festival, which falls
in April, is celebration time for the tribals.
Thodikalam Temple
34 kms Southeast of Kannur, located 2 kms from Kannavam on the Thalasseri-Mananthavady
road, this temple is famous for its mural paintings. It s believed
to have been constructed with the Pazhassi Raja family of Kottayam.
Trichambaram Temple
20 kms from Kannur, near Taliparamba town on the national highway is
a scared place of the Vaishanava cult, the deity of the temple is Sree
Krishna. The annual temple festival, usually held in March, is a colorful
event.
Cherukunnu
Famous for its Anna Poorneswari Temple, the weeklong annual festival
falls in April. There is a Kathakali Panchavadya school called Ashtikalaya
near the temple
Dharmadam Island
About 3 kms from Thalassery lays the small island of 'Dharmadam'. This
tiny 5-acre island is covered with coconut palms and green bushes,
which is a beautiful sight from the beach. A bus ride from Thalassery
will take one to the place of destination but permission is required
to enter this privately owned island. This place was earlier known
as Dharmattanam, getting its name from the popular belief that it was
a Buddhist monastery earlier, as Buddha's images are said to been excavated
from this place.
Kottiyoor
There is a famous Siva Temple here, on the banks of the River Bavali.
During the month of May or June, lakhs of devotees attend the annual
festival that lasts for 27 days.
Madayi Para
(Sacred Town)
28 kms from Kannur, the Madayi Kavu Temple, the Vadukunnu Temple and
the 7th century mosque built by Malik bin Dinar make this a sacred
town. The mosque is built of white marble brought from Arabia. There
is also a wonderful fort at Madayi, which was built by Tipu Sultan
of Mysore, the view from fort is fascinating, close by is the Madayi
beach which is also splendid.
Sree Muthappan Temple
At Parassinikadavu on the banks of the Valpatanam River, 18 kms from
Kannur is the Sree Muthappan Temple dedicated to Lord Muthappan, believed
to be the incarnation of Lord Shiva. This is the only temple in Kerala
where Theyyam, the ritual dance form of North Kerala is performed daily.
The temple's non-conformist nature is also evident in the musical custom
of offering dried fish and toddy to the deity. There is also a Kathakali
club in the temple that arranges shows on request. The performances
begins after 6.00 p.m. and lasts for 2 1/2 hrs. Also near the temple
is the Parassinikadavu snake park.
Sree Ramaswamy Temple
23 kms from Kannur, the temple dedicated to Sri Rama is one of the most
prominent temples in Malabar. The exquisite carvings in the temple
are nearly 400 years ago.
Taliparamba (Siva Temple)
This small town is famous for spices trade. Near the taluk Headquarters
is the Taliparamba Siva Temple. The District Agricultural form at Karimbam
is famous for the different varieties of mango cultivation and the
Panniyoor Pepper Research Station nearby is 20 kms from here.
Taliparambu (Vishnu Temple)
The Thiruchambaram Vishnu Temple at Taliparambu is an example of medieval
temple architecture. Said to be built date back in the 10th century,
this temple offers sights of stonewall murals and woodcraft work.
Thodikalam Temple
34 kms Southeast of Kannur, located 2 kms from Kannavam on the Thalasseri-Mananthavady
road, this temple is famous for its mural paintings. It s believed
to have been constructed with the Pazhassi Raja family of Kottayam.
Trichambaram Temple
20 kms from Kannur, near Taliparamba town on the national highway is
a scared place of the Vaishanava cult, the deity of the temple is Sree
Krishna. The annual temple festival, usually held in March, is a colorful
event.
Anandasram (spiritual centre)
15 kms from Bekal, this internationally renowned spiritual centre founded
by Swami Ramdas in 1939, offers a quiet, peaceful ambience best suited
for medication and spiritual studies.
Ananthapura (Lake Temple)
This 9th century temple is the only lake temple in Kerala and is 12km.
northeast of Kasargod. It is the Moolasthanam (original seat) of Anandapadmanabha,
the deity of Sri padmanabha Swami Temple in Thiruvananthapuram.
Bela (church)
15 kms north of Kasargode, is the famous church of Our Lady of Sorrows,
which is the oldest in the district, constructed in 1890.
Kanhangad (Spiritual centre)
Known also as Hosdurg, after the new fort built by Somashekara Nayak
of Ikkeri dynasty, this place is well known because of Nithyanadashiram
an international spiritual centre which in 4kms east of Kanhagad town.
Madhur Temple
8kms from north Kasargode town is the Srimad Anantheswara Vinayaka Temple,
also known as Madhur Temple, as it races majestically against the beautiful
landscape of the Madhurvani River. This Temple is well known for its
rich architecture and copper plate roofing.
Madiyankulam Temple
The Bhadrakali temple at Kanhangad, in Hosdurg is famed for its Bhutha
dance (Devils dance) performed in connection with the annual festival
held in May or June and December or January.
Malik Deenar Mosque
Kasargode acquired over the years considerable importance as a centre
of Islam on the west coast. The historic Malik Deena Juma Masjid (Mosque)
built in the typical Kerala style is believed to be founded by Malik
Ibin Deenar. It is one of the best-kept and most attractive old monuments
in the district and is located at Thalankara.
Manjeswaram
A number of temples and fifteen mosques make this cashew-growing town
a prominent Pilgrim centre. The memorial of the late Sri Govinda Pai,
the grand patriarch of Kannada literature is situated at Manjeswaram.
Kanwatheertha beach, which is just 3kms from here is a large swimming
pool, and the hike formation of the sea on the vast beach, makes it
the main attraction here. Another important attraction of this place
is the cultural Kalayottam (bull race) contest, which draws crowds
of people from different parts of the state.
Sree Mahalinheshwara Temple
45kms from Kasargode, located in wooded surroundings on the southern
banks of the river Payasurini, the ancient Shiva Temple contains a
Sanskrit inscription in Kannada Script, which was ascribed to the Western
Chalukya king Kirthivaram II (745-755 A.D).
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